24 Vocabulary Four-Square
Samantha D'Amico
Strategy Overview
- Vocabulary Four-Square originated from the “Frayer Model”, which is a graphic organizer that helps deepen students’ understanding of key vocabulary (CTL, 2024). Vocabulary Four-Square isi a similar model that uses alternative categories to support students.
- This strategy is effective because it helps students to understand the vocabulary at a deeper level by interacting with the word in different contexts.
- “The Four-Square lessons reflect a research-based paradigm, which incorporates interactive directed instruction followed by a meaningful and relevant period of practice and application” (Brunn, 2002).
Strategy in Action
It is recommended that the teacher pre-selects vocabulary from current units or texts. The teacher should model how to use the graphic organizer and gradually release responsibility to the students. It should be emphasized that everyone’s answer will be a little different and that is what is expected based on their interpretation of the word. The Four-Square organizer can be differentiated based on grade-level.
Video Example
https://youtube.com/watch?v=8fVCbCx9EZs%3Fsi%3D5tP_K2MrL4CO6kCq
Related Resoures
References
Brunn, M. (2002). The four-square strategy. (Teaching Ideas). The Reading Teacher, 55(6), 522-525. https://www.jstor.org/stable/20205093
Collaborative for Teaching and Learning. (2024, August 21). Frayer model & Four-Square Adaptation. Collaborative for Teaching and Learning. https://ctlonline.org/vocab-graphic-organizers/
